Nice group tours
Bonjour! Discover Nice, the city locally known as Nissa la Bella.
A medley of ancient influences, sparkling reflections and rich flavours
The story of Nice began around 350 BC when it was founded by Greek voyagers and named Nikaia after the Greek goddess of victory, Nike. Some of that ancient lore still swirls between the city’s terracotta buildings today, if you look close enough. And on a small-group tour with Back-Roads, you’ll learn how to find tales of the past in plain sight – through our expert Tour Leaders who share local stories, traditions and secrets. Discover the smooth taste of olive oil, the Baroque architecture that still reigns over the city and more when you journey with us.
Nice tours with a small group
Provence and the French Riviera
From £2,609
What to do in Nice
Stroll along Promenade des Anglais
Glittering hues of blue flowing through the Mediterranean Sea. Stretches of a pathway curving the coastline. And an atmosphere that’s as vibrant and vivacious as the city it’s nestled in. The Promenade des Anglais (Walkway of the English) dates back to the 18th century when Nice entertained the glitz and glamour of an entirely different generation: the English aristocrats. This lavish group of people – with their curly wigs and corseted bodices – would venture on a journey of their own to Nice’s warmer climates. Follow in their footsteps as you amble along this dedicated walkway, soaking up timeless ocean views.
Discover local life in Place Masséna
The first thing you might think of when you see Nice’s largest square for the first time: chess. Black and white tiles spill out from Fontaine du Soleil, "Fountain of the Sun". In its centre, standing in all his glory, is Apollo, Greek god of archery, music, poetry, healing and... the sun. Dotted around the square are locally run restaurants where wafts of fresh seabass, rich wines and sizzling meat attempt to lure you to their tables. And between trickles of tourists gasping as they spin in a circle, you’ll see French couples wandering hand in hand as they tick off daily errands alongside local children skipping across the shiny tiles as giggles spill from their lips.
Sample Nice traditional dishes
Peppery snacks ensconced in woodfire smoke, vibrant salads that burst with every crunch and the comfort of slow-cooked beef drizzled in red wine – cuisine Nissarde is a spread of dishes you’ll long for after you leave its namesake’s shores. Compare and contrast fresh ingredients with locally sourced spices. Sit at the table with your newfound friends for a leisurely lunch, French-style. And try dishes such as socca (a thin, crispy chickpea pancake), pan bagnat (salad Niçoise in its sandwich form) and the classic ratatouille (no mice involved!).
Relax on the golden sands of Nice beaches
Take that extra moment to slow down and soak up your surroundings as the sea breeze dances across your skin. Where? Settled on one of the beaches that stretches across Nice’s coastline. What style of beach do you wish to discover? Atmospheric and lively? Castel Plage offers relaxation in style. Prefer some solitude beside a handful of Nice’s residents? Coco Beach is a quiet invitation to feel like a local. Active with a love for the lingering scent of traditional dishes? La Réserve is a lesser-known beach to add to your adventure.
The flavours of France
Crumbling cheeses, colourful vegetables and tender beef are just a fraction of local ingredients used to create typical French dishes. France, including Nice, will lead you on a sensory journey for your tastebuds. Which recipe will you favour?
